Once Again - Safety First!
Before going into Real Estate, yers ago I worked in several different banks. Starting as a teller, then working into the loan department and finally transferring to a small branch. During that time, we as bank employees, were trained on safety in the event of a robbery.

A few weeks ago, one of the realtors in my MLS held an open house alone. She ended up being robbed and left tied up in the basement of the empty home she was holding open. Fortunately, the agent wasn't harmed and they caught the robber a few states away.

This week I was showing property and one of the agents with me, fell and ended up in the hospital. What does all this have to do wiith Real Estate? Everything!!!! Safety First! That's the most important part of any job, no matter what your occupation.

Listed below are some of the things to remember when showing property and how to stay safe.

1) Always meet your clients at the office. Make it a habit to copy their driver's license to keep for your files.

2) Tell a designated person where you are going, what your schedule is and the approximate time you are going to return.

3) When doing an open house, take another agent with you - share the leads - and always stay with the clients. I try to never turn my back on a client. I allow them to enter the room first and I keep myself between them and the door.

4) My banking experience taught me to estimate their height and weight - mentally keep track of any identifying marks, such as tatoo's, scars, etc. Remember what they are wearing. I still size up people when they walk thru a doorway.

5) When showing property, never wear expensive jewelry or carry large amounts of money.

6) Wear comfortable shoes. If you feel ill while showing property, stop! Contact the designated person and get help. Always carry a first aid kit in your car in the event of an accident. It would be wise to take a personal safety course.

7) Always keep your cell phone close. Memorize emergency phone numbers that you have saved into your speed dial. A final tip is to trust your first Instinct.

8) Always lock your doors and never take the same route home.

For additional safety tips, visit NAR's website. Observe National Safety Week daily.

The real estate agent that was with me is now at home recovering from a dislocated shoulder, very black eyes and deep facial wounds. Because of her age, it will take longer than usual for her to recover - I'm just thankful she wasn't hurt worse.

Kay Van Kampen